Daijiworld Media Network - Kollegal
Kollegal, May 20: It is a fact that in politics, there is neither an age limit nor any necessity for qualification. While we have veteran politicians in their 80s and 90s, here is one lady, who, at the ripe old age of 102 is all set to contest for the upcoming gram panchayat polls.
Astonishing as it may seem, centenarian Gouthamma will be contesting the GP elections from Dodda Alathur gram panchayat in Hanur constituency of Chamarajanagar district.
Gouthamma is 102 years old as per the voter identity card issued by the Election Commission. She is illiterate.
Her husband, the late Avalanaika, was a rich and well-known person in the village, so much so that the village was formerly named after him as 'Avalanaikanahalli'. Later the name was changed to Dodda Alathur. In fact, even today this village is known among some by the name of Avalananaikanahalli. It has been 30 years since Avalanaika's death.
Avalanaika's brother is a former president of mandal panchayat.
Among Gouthamma's seven children (six daughters and a son), only four daughters are alive now, and all of them are settled in life. Her grandson Manju is working for a company in Mysuru. He visits her once a month.
Gouthamma filed her nomination papers on Monday May 18 in general women's category.
Speaking to media persons, Gouthamma said, "I am confident of winning the election as I am contesting because of pressure from villagers. If people bless me with votes, I will work as much as I can."
Indeed, Gouthamma's spirit ought to be applauded!